Wanting to be single for the rest of my life

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Apr 3, 2025
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#1
I'm trying to see if anyone else can understand and relate to where I'm at in regards to dating.

I've been single for 16 months. I attempted to date through apps because I'm not a social person. It didn't go well so I promised to work on myself more through the winter, put off dating, and revisit the notion in spring.

Now I have no want or desire to date. Don't get me wrong, I do sometimes wonder what it would be like to have a partner. But when I factor in how content I am with my routine and life, dating doesn't seem worthwhile anymore.

I have to add that I was extremely codependent all of my life so now that I've been single for a good amount of time, I can't imagine being in a romantic relationship.

I do accept that if God does have a man for me, I won't fight His will. But I'm definitely not actively seeking a partner nor do I plan on doing so in the near future.

Has anyone else had disappointing experiences trying to date as a Christian that led you to "give up" on desiring a partner?
 

HopeinHim98

Well-known member
Mar 16, 2023
640
576
93
#2
I'm trying to see if anyone else can understand and relate to where I'm at in regards to dating.

I've been single for 16 months. I attempted to date through apps because I'm not a social person. It didn't go well so I promised to work on myself more through the winter, put off dating, and revisit the notion in spring.

Now I have no want or desire to date. Don't get me wrong, I do sometimes wonder what it would be like to have a partner. But when I factor in how content I am with my routine and life, dating doesn't seem worthwhile anymore.

I have to add that I was extremely codependent all of my life so now that I've been single for a good amount of time, I can't imagine being in a romantic relationship.

I do accept that if God does have a man for me, I won't fight His will. But I'm definitely not actively seeking a partner nor do I plan on doing so in the near future.

Has anyone else had disappointing experiences trying to date as a Christian that led you to "give up" on desiring a partner?
I understand a little bit. I've dated enough and I've gotten my heart broke enough that it makes me REALLY cautious...

But I still desire marriage and a family of my own! So I haven't given up I guess...but I want it to be totally God's leading.

I think it's so important to come to the place where you're satisfied in the Lord as a single before seeking a relationship. So definitely make Jesus your focus right now. I mean, He should always be of course, but Paul makes it clear it's easier to keep our focus on Him if we're single,
 

cinder

Senior Member
Mar 26, 2014
4,474
2,465
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#3
The best part of being happily single is that crappy relationships don't seem nearly so attractive. And eventually you start to hit a point where you realize that your dreams of love and marriage at 18-20 are quite different from what starting a relationship in your 40+ years looks like and your expectations have to adjust accordingly.
 

Lynx

Folksy yet erudite
Aug 13, 2014
28,644
10,228
113
#4
I'm trying to see if anyone else can understand and relate to where I'm at in regards to dating.

I've been single for 16 months. I attempted to date through apps because I'm not a social person. It didn't go well so I promised to work on myself more through the winter, put off dating, and revisit the notion in spring.

Now I have no want or desire to date. Don't get me wrong, I do sometimes wonder what it would be like to have a partner. But when I factor in how content I am with my routine and life, dating doesn't seem worthwhile anymore.

I have to add that I was extremely codependent all of my life so now that I've been single for a good amount of time, I can't imagine being in a romantic relationship.

I do accept that if God does have a man for me, I won't fight His will. But I'm definitely not actively seeking a partner nor do I plan on doing so in the near future.

Has anyone else had disappointing experiences trying to date as a Christian that led you to "give up" on desiring a partner?
First, howdy and welcome to the forum.

Second, welcome to the rest of your life! You cracked the code! It's all optional, so you can get on with the rest of your life now. You may find the perfect guy for you next week, or it may be 20 years from now or maybe never. But it's not something you can't live without, it doesn't define you and your life is not a failure without it.

Y'know what the best part is? Shhhh! Don't tell anyone... The best part is the Valentine's Day half price candy sale on February 15th. You don't have to pay full price OR have any emotional strings when your boyfriend gives you candy. It's ALL YOURS at half price! :D :D :D
 

Gideon300

Well-known member
Mar 18, 2021
5,921
3,618
113
Frankston, Victoria
christianlife.au
#5
I'm trying to see if anyone else can understand and relate to where I'm at in regards to dating.

I've been single for 16 months. I attempted to date through apps because I'm not a social person. It didn't go well so I promised to work on myself more through the winter, put off dating, and revisit the notion in spring.

Now I have no want or desire to date. Don't get me wrong, I do sometimes wonder what it would be like to have a partner. But when I factor in how content I am with my routine and life, dating doesn't seem worthwhile anymore.

I have to add that I was extremely codependent all of my life so now that I've been single for a good amount of time, I can't imagine being in a romantic relationship.

I do accept that if God does have a man for me, I won't fight His will. But I'm definitely not actively seeking a partner nor do I plan on doing so in the near future.

Has anyone else had disappointing experiences trying to date as a Christian that led you to "give up" on desiring a partner?
I was single for about 25 years. I became content being single. I was married about 2-1/2 years ago. I'm 73. Never say never.
 
May 23, 2009
17,188
6,036
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#6
I'm trying to see if anyone else can understand and relate to where I'm at in regards to dating.

I've been single for 16 months. I attempted to date through apps because I'm not a social person. It didn't go well so I promised to work on myself more through the winter, put off dating, and revisit the notion in spring.

Now I have no want or desire to date. Don't get me wrong, I do sometimes wonder what it would be like to have a partner. But when I factor in how content I am with my routine and life, dating doesn't seem worthwhile anymore.

I have to add that I was extremely codependent all of my life so now that I've been single for a good amount of time, I can't imagine being in a romantic relationship.

I do accept that if God does have a man for me, I won't fight His will. But I'm definitely not actively seeking a partner nor do I plan on doing so in the near future.

Has anyone else had disappointing experiences trying to date as a Christian that led you to "give up" on desiring a partner?
Hi Rebecca,

Welcome to the forum and you're in good company!

We have singles in all categories -- some would really like to find someone, some are content with remaining single, some purposely want to stay single, and some are open to whatever God does in their lives either way.

Many of us have been on the journey of singleness for a very long time and can easily relate to what you're saying.

I hope you'll find this to be a supportive place and will make a few friends here. :)
 
Apr 3, 2025
17
20
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#7
I understand a little bit. I've dated enough and I've gotten my heart broke enough that it makes me REALLY cautious...

But I still desire marriage and a family of my own! So I haven't given up I guess...but I want it to be totally God's leading.

I think it's so important to come to the place where you're satisfied in the Lord as a single before seeking a relationship. So definitely make Jesus your focus right now. I mean, He should always be of course, but Paul makes it clear it's easier to keep our focus on Him if we're single,

I agree with needing to be satisfied in the Lord. That's the point that I'm at. I'm continually building and strengthening my relationship with Him so there's no emptiness I feel. That's why I'm so happy being single, I feel complete for the first time in my life.

I love that you can relate to having God lead! When I catch myself trying to control situations or outcomes, that's when I repeat in my head in prayer "not my will be done, Your will be done through me." He keeps me grounded.
 
Mar 13, 2014
42,936
17,362
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70
Tennessee
#8
I do accept that if God does have a man for me, I won't fight His will. But I'm definitely not actively seeking a partner nor do I plan on doing so in the near future.
Don't believe that it is often that it is God's will that someone get married. Guidelines are provided in scripture as to what may constitute a good choice but in the end it is up to the individual to decide to pursue a loving and enduring relationship that may lead to marriage.
 
Apr 3, 2025
17
20
3
#10
First, howdy and welcome to the forum.

Second, welcome to the rest of your life! You cracked the code! It's all optional, so you can get on with the rest of your life now. You may find the perfect guy for you next week, or it may be 20 years from now or maybe never. But it's not something you can't live without, it doesn't define you and your life is not a failure without it.

Y'know what the best part is? Shhhh! Don't tell anyone... The best part is the Valentine's Day half price candy sale on February 15th. You don't have to pay full price OR have any emotional strings when your boyfriend gives you candy. It's ALL YOURS at half price! :D:D:D
My fur babies are my Valentine's and I continue to and always will go broke for my girls. Through them I've witnessed what it's like for another being to show me unconditional love is. They've seen me at my worst and are now seeing me at the best I've ever been and have loved me the same throughout. I thank God for them! I'm not a candy person but I will spoil my girls with toys and treats 😄
 

Karlon

Well-known member
Mar 8, 2023
2,980
1,376
113
#11
I'm trying to see if anyone else can understand and relate to where I'm at in regards to dating.

I've been single for 16 months. I attempted to date through apps because I'm not a social person. It didn't go well so I promised to work on myself more through the winter, put off dating, and revisit the notion in spring.

Now I have no want or desire to date. Don't get me wrong, I do sometimes wonder what it would be like to have a partner. But when I factor in how content I am with my routine and life, dating doesn't seem worthwhile anymore.

I have to add that I was extremely codependent all of my life so now that I've been single for a good amount of time, I can't imagine being in a romantic relationship.

I do accept that if God does have a man for me, I won't fight His will. But I'm definitely not actively seeking a partner nor do I plan on doing so in the near future.

Has anyone else had disappointing experiences trying to date as a Christian that led you to "give up" on desiring a partner?
i'm saying most Christians have had those experiences. your particular experience sounds more like wondering instead of known desire to date. in your case, time will tell. patience is on your side & you seem NOT to have an issue with it. always incorporate past, present & future in your dating decisions. & certainly, wisdom is the top characteristic to employ in decision making. blessings to you Rebecca89.
 
Mar 26, 2014
4,474
2,465
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#12
My fur babies are my Valentine's and I continue to and always will go broke for my girls. Through them I've witnessed what it's like for another being to show me unconditional love is. They've seen me at my worst and are now seeing me at the best I've ever been and have loved me the same throughout. I thank God for them! I'm not a candy person but I will spoil my girls with toys and treats 😄
I love my dog too. As pretty much anyone who talks to me for 10 minutes knows. Dogs are the best people.
 
Apr 3, 2025
17
20
3
#14
i'm saying most Christians have had those experiences. your particular experience sounds more like wondering instead of known desire to date. in your case, time will tell. patience is on your side & you seem NOT to have an issue with it. always incorporate past, present & future in your dating decisions. & certainly, wisdom is the top characteristic to employ in decision making. blessings to you Rebecca89.

I agree with you. I'm enjoying the journey and walking in faith with my Lord and Savior.

I've been good at recognizing patterns in other's behaviors and compare them to past experiences I've had. If something doesn't add up, along with praying, I do ask a lot of questions so I'm not just assuming or jumping to conclusions. I'm a "why" person, I need to know why. I also love to learn and gain perspective from others.

Thank you so much! ❤️
 

Karlon

Well-known member
Mar 8, 2023
2,980
1,376
113
#16
I agree with you. I'm enjoying the journey and walking in faith with my Lord and Savior.

I've been good at recognizing patterns in other's behaviors and compare them to past experiences I've had. If something doesn't add up, along with praying, I do ask a lot of questions so I'm not just assuming or jumping to conclusions. I'm a "why" person, I need to know why. I also love to learn and gain perspective from others.

Thank you so much! ❤️
you seem to be a lady with a backing of wisdom. patience is 1 of the the key components in applying wisdom. always seek out elder Christians when inquiring. just like a mother, they know.
 

Lynx

Folksy yet erudite
Aug 13, 2014
28,644
10,228
113
#17
I agree with you. I'm enjoying the journey and walking in faith with my Lord and Savior.

I've been good at recognizing patterns in other's behaviors and compare them to past experiences I've had. If something doesn't add up, along with praying, I do ask a lot of questions so I'm not just assuming or jumping to conclusions. I'm a "why" person, I need to know why. I also love to learn and gain perspective from others.

Thank you so much! ❤️
Why is soooooo important. I find it much easier to forgive people if I understand why they do what they do.

Alcoholics for example. So many of them started by just wanting to get some peace for a while, something that will stop the worry and depression just for a little bit. I can understand that. If I was not a Christian and did not know anything better I could do about it, I might have been an alcoholic myself.

Or the way people gossip about each other, so they can feel good about themselves by putting other people down. I understand the need to feel good about yourself, and how easy it is to feed your pride by putting other people down. It's terribly destructive, but I understand why some people do it.

So what kind of dog and what kind of cat do you have? And what are their names?
 

Kireina

Well-known member
Aug 26, 2020
1,510
1,449
113
#18
Even though I didnt close the door on that chance I never thought I'd tie the knot especially at 46. Yet life took an unexpected turn. GOD has a different path laid out for me. I am now a Mrs. ☺️

Our life here can lead to one of two destinations a solo journey or coupled with a lifelong companion. It depends on God's will in your life I believe. 🙏

Enjoy your single life ☺️ Both Single life and marriage have their own unique joys and happiness that make the wait worthwhile.

God bless you ♥️
 
Apr 3, 2025
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#19
you seem to be a lady with a backing of wisdom. patience is 1 of the the key components in applying wisdom. always seek out elder Christians when inquiring. just like a mother, they know.

I'm a sponge, I love absorbing new information, ideas, and viewpoints. In my opinion, the only dumb question is the one that goes not asked.

I'm getting a lot better at practicing patience. When I find myself rushing to a conclusion or solution, I remember what a former therapist told me years ago.. "sit and simmer on it." That way I don't act impulsively and/or irrationally. Psalm 23 helps tremendously to bring me out of a heightened emotional state so I can sit and simmer on a topic or situation.
 
Apr 3, 2025
17
20
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#20
Why is soooooo important. I find it much easier to forgive people if I understand why they do what they do.

Alcoholics for example. So many of them started by just wanting to get some peace for a while, something that will stop the worry and depression just for a little bit. I can understand that. If I was not a Christian and did not know anything better I could do about it, I might have been an alcoholic myself.

Or the way people gossip about each other, so they can feel good about themselves by putting other people down. I understand the need to feel good about yourself, and how easy it is to feed your pride by putting other people down. It's terribly destructive, but I understand why some people do it.

So what kind of dog and what kind of cat do you have? And what are their names?

I forgive readily as of recently. I had to first figure out the line between forgiving and accepting. I now know that just because I forgive someone and their behaviors/actions does not mean I have to accept the continuation of and allow it in my life. I pray for them and have boundaries.

I was an addict for over half of my life and Jesus delivered me from that. I've been clean 18 months.

My opinion on gossip is it's a big smokescreen. If your focus isn't on the one gossiping but on the one being gossiped about, then your distracted from the gossipers bad behaviors. I shut those situations down by saying "I refuse to listen to you talk about a party that isn't here to respond" or I ask "would you be saying this if that person were here right now?" I don't entertain drama like that anymore.

I have a Springer Spaniel named Lily and I have a Brown Tabby Domestic Shorthair named Echo.